Booked Grandeur for the Western Caribbean itinerary and the fact we can drive to the port. We were fans of Explorer of the Seas and after having sailed on Quantum, we weren't sure what to expect from this sailing. Loved the Lady Q as a ship, but we were left wanting across the board in terms of dining, hotel service, bar service, etc.
As we pulled up she looked so small, we called her "fun size" but once we were on board that didn't really matter. From the pier staff to the check-in team to the crew and officers, it was a completely different experience and we're so glad we sailed on Grandeur. Those teams were happy, nice and accommodating. Not just to my family, but we observed the crew going above & beyond for other families. This made for happy passengers, and it was a completely different vibe, one that was great for vacation.
Our very first cruise was on Grandeur seven years ago, and based on the level of service we received, we changed a 2016 cruise booked on Anthem to Grandeur. We let the crew know why also, that their work made a difference. They wondered if people would come back to Grandeur now that Quantum and later Anthem will be sailing out of Bayonne. I think everyone wants different things, and if the crew staffing the Grandeur keeps delivering on the service end of things, the question they posed will be answered with full cabins and happy passengers.
The room was large, located near the front of the ship starboard side. The room temperature controls worked great, as did the lighting controls. The bed was comfortable, the L shaped sofa was comfortable. the dining table chairs were a bit heavy to move around but they were ok. Tons of storage space for any amount of clothing or luggage, we had 5 suitcases, a hanging bag and two bags for scuba gear and everything had a place. The bathroom is immense, with a Jacuzzi tub and separate shower, two sinks, a toilet and a bidet.
This rating is for the port - the port staff were great, the parking was convenient, upon arrival there were plenty of porters available to help get luggage to the cars. Basically the port was organized and easy to get in & out of.
We spent our day at Barefoot Beach, in Cabana OW1, and it was a beautiful sunny day. Franklin was our cabana steward and he was excellent. The island Concierge was Roberto and he kept things in order. The lunch buffet was good, I think it was better in previous trips but no complaints for steak, shrimp, corn, salad and cookies.